Difference in performance? - 15" rims vs. 16" or 1

[gbsaab]

OK - I've done some upgrades to my car, reprogramed apc, higher injector, 3.0 fpr, upgraded fuel chip and so on. I've done nothing to upgrade my handling (the car is a 86' turbo 16v). I wondering if I should look into 16" rims. Now how much difference do they make in improving the handling vs. the stock ones (they do look better, but frankly, if they don't help much with handling, I'd rather spend the money else where). And if they do, where and what type should I get - the lower the cost the better. Thanks

[Smackrazor]

If they're lighter you get better acceleration and you also get a harder ride coz there's not so much rubber to soak up bumps and potholes etc...

[phriedom]

IN GENERAL: larger rims weigh more, cost more, ride harsher, are less forgiving in corners (break loose suddendly instead of gradually), but look really cool. Of course, individual results may vary. As evidence, I would like to point out that race cars do not use low-profile tires unless unusual rules force them to.

In My Humble Opinion, the best and cheapest thing to do to improve handling would be to add or stiffen the rear end anti-sway bar with a larger bar or with harder bushings. After that, stronger springs and shocks.